What happens to your EPF account when you take a career break for 1–2 years? Explained

EPF accounts continue earning interest during career breaks until age 58, or for 3 years if stopped working at 55 or later.

Under the new EPF framework, members can withdraw up to 75% of their EPF balance immediately after becoming unemployed; the remaining 25% is available after 12 months of continuous unemployment.

Eligible withdrawal amounts now include employee and employer contributions plus interest, making the available amount larger than before.

Tax applies on withdrawals unless the member completed five years of continuous service before the career break.

EPF interest rate is 8.25% per annum for FY 2025–26, credited to over 34 crore member accounts on July 15, 2026.